Everybody Solar – The Lorge School
Everybody Solar – The Lorge School
Solar Grant Powers Sustainability and Student Success at New York City Special Needs School
While replacing an outdated oil-fired boiler system with a modern HVAC system, The Lorge School of New York City strengthened its commitment to sustainability and eliminated the need for fuel oil. However, the transition also led to unexpectedly higher operating energy costs due to an increased electricity demand.
A solar energy system funded by a grant from All Points North Foundation will offset rising utility bills for the 64-year-old school that serves some of the city’s most vulnerable students with special needs. Many of these largely middle and high school students with disabilities come from foster care or shelter systems.
Leading the project of installing bi-facial panels on the school’s roof is Everybody Solar, a nonprofit that continues to deepen its commitment to reducing energy disparity by expanding access to renewable energy. This project will serve as a living example of science and environmental education, inspiring students to advocate for a sustainable future. The solar array will generate 40,525 kWh of electricity annually, with projected savings exceeding half a million dollars over the 25-year lifespan of the solar panels.
Teaming with MPower, a Brooklyn-based solar installation company with a strong track record in New York City, Everybody Solar will monitor the performance of the solar panels for three years, tracking energy production and usage to maximize efficiency. Cost savings from reduced utility bills will help ensure that the school can reinvest those resources into individualized educational programs and support services for students.
With 32 solar projects thriving across 15 states, Everybody Solar and its passionate partners have not only reduced carbon footprints across the country but also uplifted communities. The Lorge School aims to actively educate and engage its students and surrounding communities in its transition to – and benefits of – solar energy with the hope of inspiring others to consider and act on sustainable, renewable energy solutions.
For more information, visit www.everybodysolar.org
Photo credit: Everybody Solar
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All Points North Foundation provides grants for U.S.-based projects and initiatives that support our priorities: improving public middle school education and teacher training, and implementing effective solar programs and/or projects.
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